Hand-Forged Samurai Blade in Shira-Saya Style
1xAre you looking for the heart of your next sword project or do you wish to own an authentic piece of smithing art? This hand-forged blade, crafted from 1045 carbon steel, provides the perfect foundation for any Japanese weapon enthusiast. The blade stands out with its purity and elegance, highlighted by the simple natural wood scabbard known as Shirasaya. It is designed to offer you a raw experience of traditional craftsmanship – whether you plan to fit it with your own tsuba and handle or keep it in its minimalist wooden beauty. This is not just metal; it is the result of precision work that brings the spirit of samurai tradition into your collection. Further product information ...
Gleam of the Rising Sun: Hand-Forged Samurai Blade in Shira-Saya Style
Masterpiece of Carbon Steel
This blade is forged from 1045 carbon steel, valued for its toughness and edge retention. An aesthetic hamon line, created by a fine cross-grind, adorns the surface, contrasting beautifully with the longitudinal polish of the rest of the blade. The product is delivered in an unvarnished wooden scabbard (saya), which serves for safe storage and protects the steel from environmental factors. A cloth bag for transport and protection of the wood is also included.
Technical Specifications
As each piece is handcrafted, specifications may vary slightly, giving each blade its unique character.
| Total Length (from kissaki to end of nakago) | 975 mm (approx. 38.39") |
| Blade Length (from kissaki to mune-machi) | 698 mm (approx. 27.48") |
| Tang Length (nakago) | 276 mm (approx. 10.87") |
| Blade Profile at Habaki | 7.4 x 31.8 mm (approx. 0.29" x 1.25") |
| Blade Profile at Yokote Level | 5.8 x 24.2 mm (approx. 0.23" x 0.95") |
| Blade Weight | 788 g (approx. 1.74 lbs) |
| Steel Hardness | 52-55 HRC |
| Material | 1045 Carbon Steel |
History and Significance of the Shirasaya
During times of peace or periods when carrying swords in public was prohibited (such as after the Haitōrei Edict of 1876), samurai stored their blades in shirasaya ("white scabbard"). These were simple, unvarnished wooden mounts without a handguard (tsuba), allowing the steel to "breathe" and preventing corrosion. Magnolia wood, traditionally used, absorbed moisture and kept the blade in perfect condition. Interestingly, a sword in this form looked more like a wooden staff, allowing it to be carried discreetly.
Safety and Maintenance
Warning: The blade is extremely sharp. Handling it requires maximum caution. This product is intended for collectors, drawing practice (Iaidō), or, after assembly, for cutting tests (Tameshigiri). It is not designed for contact sparring (blade-to-blade combat), as this could cause irreparable damage to the edge or result in injury. Use is entirely at your own risk.
To ensure your blade serves you well for years to come, follow these guidelines:
- Never touch the blade with bare fingers – sweat leaves aggressive salts that cause corrosion.
- Regularly clean and treat the blade with specialized sword oil (e.g., Camellia oil).
- Store the blade in a dry environment with a stable temperature.
- Do not expose the wooden scabbard (saya) to direct sunlight or high temperatures to prevent cracking.
Recommended Accessories
We recommend purchasing a brass habaki (blade collar) for this blade, as it is essential for securing the blade within the scabbard and guard. For long-term care, a sword maintenance kit (including uchiko powder and oil) is the perfect addition.
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